Unseen Thailand: Bung Kan

They say Isan is dry, but if you go and see for yourself, the water is flowing everywhere. How can it be dry?

Many people may not know what tourist attractions there are in upper Isan. Would you believe that...

• There is a rock that resembles a large whale.

• A wooden bridge extends from the rocks around a small hill, on top of which is a meditation area.

- There are waterfalls that require a boat ride to access, and most importantly, there are natural slides that will tear your pants every time you use them.

- The deepest point of the Mekong River.

- The province of Bueng Kan boasts stunning views of rubber tree plantations.

Today, I will take you to explore another unseen destination in Thailand. I am confident that many people still do not know what attractions Bueng Kan has to offer. But believe it or not, this small province, with its local way of life, has an inherent charm that makes it a naturally attractive destination without the need for embellishment. As a native of Nong Khai, a province that was once part of Bueng Kan, I am familiar with the area and have gathered some information. However, I have never had the opportunity to explore it properly. So, this time, I will take you on a tour of the main attractions in Bueng Kan. Let's see what hidden gems this province has to offer.

Our journey begins in Bueng Kan, heading towards Phu Tok, the iconic landmark of the province.

Phu Tok is home to Wat Chetiyakhiri Vihara (Phu Tok Temple), located in Ban Kham Kan, Na Sa Baeng District, Bueng Kan Province. It was founded by Phra Ajarn Juan Kulchettho. In the Isaan language, it means "isolated mountain." Phu Tok has two peaks: Phu Tok Yai and Phu Tok Noi. The part that pilgrims and tourists can visit is Phu Tok Noi. Phu Tok Yai is further away and not yet open to tourists. It is the starting point for the hike to the top of Phu Tok. The highlight of Phu Tok is the wooden bridge and stairs that offer panoramic views of the surrounding area. It was built entirely by hand, with the stairs winding around Phu Tok in a 360-degree loop, with a total of 7 levels. It took 5 years to build, and it is truly amazing. I have been in awe of it since I was a child.

The interior of Phu Thok offers a variety of angles for sightseeing. The classic contrast of orange rocks against green trees makes it visually striking.

The fifth floor is the most important floor, with a large pavilion, Buddha statues, monks' quarters, and the remains of Phra Ajarn Juan. The highlight is the natural stone bridge leading to the Buddhist temple containing the relics of the Lord Buddha. Currently, a wooden bridge connects the stone bridge to the Buddhist temple. From here, you can clearly see the spiral staircase leading to the sixth floor.

After the walk, we must continue to the waterfall.

Waterfall Wonders of Bueng Kan: A Must-Visit Trio

Bueng Kan boasts three unmissable waterfalls, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

1. Tham Phra Waterfall: This stunning cascade plunges through a cave, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of water and light.

Tham Phra Waterfall: A Natural Slide

This sentence describes Tham Phra Waterfall as a "natural slide." This suggests that the waterfall has a smooth, sloping surface that allows visitors to slide down it.

Tham Phra Waterfall: A Hidden Gem in Bueng Kan

Tham Phra Waterfall, also known as Tham Phra Phu Wua Waterfall, is nestled within the Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary in Ban Tham Phra, Soeng Kham Subdistrict, Seka District, Bueng Kan Province. This magnificent three-tiered waterfall cascades down a towering sandstone mountain, showcasing its full splendor during the rainy season.

Due to its secluded location within the forest, reaching Tham Phra Waterfall requires a scenic boat ride from the pier, followed by a short hike of approximately 1 kilometer. Despite the journey, the breathtaking beauty of the waterfall makes it a worthwhile destination.

The water level will be very high from July to the end of October.

Let's move on to the seven-colored waterfall, another waterfall near Phu Thok, which is very beautiful. It is said that during the late rainy season, the waterfall reflects sunlight in rainbow colors, hence the name "seven-colored waterfall".

The seven-colored waterfall has a very large curtain of water.

Another waterfall, Tad Wiman Thippha, is unique because it only has water during the rainy season. In simpler terms, if it rained the day before your visit, there will be water. However, it is incredibly beautiful. I personally love it. You have to walk through water and forests to reach it, and it has about 5 levels.

On his way, he will see the full view of Phu Langka. During the rainy season, the fog floats around.

Let's move on to the next stop, Hin Sam Waan at Phu Sing, a new and popular landmark where you can capture stunning sunrise and sunset views.

The Three Whales Rock, a captivating tourist attraction in Phu Sing, is located within the protected area of the Dong Dib Kala National Forest Reserve, Phu Sing Forest, and Dong Si Chompoo Forest. In the region of Phu Sing, Bueng Kan, a province renowned for its mountains adorned with unique rock formations, the Three Whales Rock stands out as a remarkable geological wonder. This massive rock formation, perched on a high cliff, comprises three distinct boulders estimated to be 75 million years old. The Three Whales Rock derives its name from its resemblance to a family of whales—a father, mother, and child—when viewed from afar, based on the size of each boulder. Aerial drone photography captures the stunning resemblance with exceptional clarity. The Three Whales Rock is a truly breathtaking sight, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.

The Three Whales Rock: A Geological Wonder in Phusang

The Three Whales Rock is a captivating geological formation located within the Phusang Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled amidst the Dong Dib Ka La, Phusang, and Dong Si Chompoo protected forests. This area boasts a diverse landscape of unique rock formations, cliffs, and caves, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for visitors.

The Three Whales Rock, as its name suggests, comprises three massive boulders perched on a high cliff face. These ancient rocks, estimated to be 75 million years old, are a unique geological wonder. From a distance, the three boulders resemble a family of whales – a father, mother, and child – aptly named according to their respective sizes.

It is truly beautiful.

Many people worry about accommodation when visiting Bung Kan. However, you can put those worries aside. Today, I would like to recommend a riverside accommodation option: Baan Pak Rim Doi Resort in Bung Khla District, Bung Kan Province. This resort offers a lush environment and stunning views of the Mekong River and the mountains. Moreover, the accommodation is very affordable, with prices starting from 450 baht. I am confident that everyone will be impressed by this resort.

Reservation Information

For reservations, please contact 0819543762.

Moreover, the venue boasts a conference room that can also accommodate banquets, making it an ideal choice for seminars and events. The stunning ambiance awaits your arrival.

The accommodation is surrounded by trees.

The houses are detached and private, with options for both single-family homes and duplexes.

The room is spacious and well-decorated in a classic wooden style.

The main advantages of this accommodation are its cleanliness and the extremely relaxing atmosphere.

The next morning, we headed back and stopped at a coffee shop by the Mekong River in Bueng Kan town.

Of course, here is the translation:

You can't go back without stopping by the Mekong River's navel, which is Wat Ahong. During the dry season, you can see beautiful views and rows of rocks.

The journey ends here. How was it? Can you believe that Bueng Kan, a province in the Northeast, has such beautiful hidden gems? Come and visit Bueng Kan and you will surely fall in love with it. Bueng Kan, the city of civilization.